Kathleen Hagerty Provost | Northwestern University
The use of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, has surged in recent years. Despite this rise, a significant number of users discontinue these medications within a year. A June 2024 poll indicated that 12% of U.S. adults have used these drugs despite their high cost.
Dr. Sadiya Khan, a cardiologist at Northwestern Medicine, is investigating the reasons behind the high discontinuation rates and potential harms of stopping therapy prematurely. She stated, “The staggeringly high discontinuation rates of GLP-1 RA should raise alarms for clinicians, policymakers, and public health experts.”
Khan hypothesizes several issues contributing to this trend: "First and foremost, the high cost of these therapies is likely a large barrier." She also noted that some people may perceive these drugs as non-essential once weight loss is achieved or may use them for cosmetic purposes rather than chronic disease management.
In a JAMA Viewpoint opinion piece published on November 13, Khan and colleagues called for more research to understand the causes of discontinuation and develop interventions to support long-term use. “Newer, high-potency GLP-1 RAs have revolutionized the therapeutic landscape for patients living with overweight, obesity or diabetes,” Khan remarked.
A 2023 survey revealed that interest in using GLP-1 RAs dropped from 45% to 14% when participants learned about potential weight regain after stopping the medication.
Dr. Khan can discuss various underlying reasons for discontinuation including cost, insurance approvals, supply issues, side effects, and lack of weight response. She also emphasizes strategies to improve persistence by prioritizing equitable access and reducing medication costs.